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I suggest a small (5mm x 5mm) image-correlator-wotsit as on the underside of an optical mouse, configured to behave as a freely spinning trackball. Dragging a fingertip over the sensor moves the pointer directly (for small, precise movements) or ballistically (if the user really wants trackpoint0like behaviour). Swiping the finger over it so that finger is still moving by the time it leaves the sensor causes the pointer to coast until it is grabbed by the finger again or until it slows to a stop. Since I'm very used to using the index and middle fingers for the left and right mouse buttons, I'd probably want the sensor under my thumb and the primary mouse button behind or to the right of the keyboard and the secondary mouse button below that. Since vertical scrolling is often used in browsing, a dedicated 1D scroller (perhaps under the ring finger) down the right-hand edge would be especially nice. That way, I can freely scroll through a long web page and wave my pointer about at the same time.

I like trackpoints. A lot of software doesn’t work nicely using merely a touch screen (but I still cope with it), and Wacom technology is wonderful but expensive. Tiny touch pads are a challenge, especially if they add a scroll bar.

However, other than ThinkPads, trackpoints have generally been implemented badly. They often feel stiff, and they could smudge the screen. Also, I’ve been spoiled by scroll bars or, better, Apple-style multitouch. Even ThinkPads’ trackpoint scrolling doesn’t feel good compared to touchpads. I cope without scrolling, too.

Another obvious alternative is a large touch pad opposite the screen, like what Microsoft keeps patenting.

For this poll, I vote trackpoint.

Look on the other side. The optical mouse is on the right side of the Raon, above the keyboard.

Nah the Raon "gamepad" isnt good enough as it is based off 4 buttons, where the trackpoint gives you 360 degrees of freedom.
think - which was better streetfighter at the arcade or streetfighter on your mates SEGA? gimmie the stick anyday

Or how about an optical mouse as is used on the Raon Digital Everun.

http://www.pocketables.net/2007/12/review-raon-dig.html

(about halfway down the page)

About the same size as a trackpoint, but easier to use and potentially more versatile.

My vote if for the track button. If you try to stuff a touch pad you will ruin the usability of any keyboard design. There is just no space to make a touch pad work while keeping in pocket size unless you compromise the keyboard.

My vote is for no touch pad since we are talking about pocket netbook. There is no room to provide both.

A track point button could work. So can just using a touch screen.

I would say track point or rely on a touch screen. A pocket netbook has NO room for a touch pad if it is going to be narrow enough to fit in a pocket. Thus to me that means either a track point button which will not reduce the keyboard size or just incorporate a stylus and use pen input to move the cursur and choose programs etc.

I'm for trackpoint because it's smaller than touch pad and it is just as rarely used as touch pad since everybody carries a small mouse with them

I miss my trackpoint. All the new PC's ONLY have the horrible touchpad.....and because of this Laptops are too big. Its crap. My B1200 would be great if it had a trackpoint....instead I have to install a mouse.
I reckon trackpoint or nothing.